From Cosmetologist to Substitute Teaching
Your experience as a cosmetologist gives you unique advantages in the classroom. Here's how to make the transition.
$33,400
Previous Salary
$29,000
Sub Teacher Salary
4-12 weeks
Transition Time
6
Key Skills
Why Cosmetologists Make Great Substitute Teachers
As a cosmetologist, you've already developed skills that many new substitute teachers struggle to build. Your background gives you a significant advantage in the classroom.
Your Transferable Skills
Salary Comparison
$33,400
Average annual salary
$29,000
Average annual salary
Substitute teaching pays approximately $4,400/year lower than the average cosmetologist salary. However, many subs value the flexibility, work-life balance, and fulfillment of working with students.
Steps to Make the Transition
Check education requirements
Review your state's substitute teaching requirements. Cosmetology school hours typically don't count as college credits, so you may need additional education depending on your state's requirements. Some states accept a high school diploma plus experience.
Complete required education
If your state requires college credits, community colleges are an affordable option. Some cosmetology schools have articulation agreements with community colleges that allow some of your training hours to transfer as credits.
Apply for substitute certification
Submit your application through your state's education department. Highlight your client management experience, creativity, and one-on-one communication skills.
Complete background check
Submit fingerprints and pass the background screening. Your state cosmetology license required a similar background check process.
Target art, CTE, and cosmetology classes
Many high schools offer cosmetology programs through Career and Technical Education departments. Your professional license and salon experience make you uniquely qualified to substitute in these programs. Also consider art, health, and elective classes.
Common Challenges & Solutions
Challenge: Comparable pay but loss of tips and flexibility
Solution: The consistent schedule and benefits eligibility can offset the loss of tips. Many cosmetologists maintain a small clientele on evenings and weekends for supplemental income while substitute teaching during the day.
Challenge: Adjusting from one-on-one salon chair interactions to group instruction
Solution: Think of the classroom as your salon with multiple clients. Set up stations, rotate attention, and use your natural ability to build rapport. Your conversational skills and ability to make people comfortable are exactly what students need from a substitute.
Frequently Asked Questions
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State Requirements
Check your state's requirements
Training Courses
Get classroom-ready with our courses
Ready to Make the Switch?
Your cosmetologist experience is more valuable in the classroom than you think. Start your training today.